Any Writing is Experimental, by Will Stanton

Any writing, especially when one first endeavors to write, is experimental.  This is particularly true for those not well versed or prone to writing.  As one becomes more accomplished, the need for experimentation is reduced but rarely eliminated.

The primary function of writing (and speaking, for that matter) is to communicate clearly, conveying accurately what is meant to be said.  If that is achieved, the secondary consideration is to communicate in an engaging manner through a good command of language and perhaps, when appropriate, with humor.

The main advantage of writing, versus attempting to speak extemporaneously, is one is given the chance, in advance of presentation, to organize one's thoughts and words.  In that way, the presenter has a good chance of eliminating pauses or non-verbal utterances while searching for the next thing to say.  This also prevents one from repeating or wandering astray onto unrelated and unnecessary sidetracks.  The presenter also has the advantage of not droning on, losing the main point or topic meant to be conveyed and, consequently, driving the listeners to distraction.  The presentation should be no more nor less than required.

A colleague of mine, Dr. Hughes, made an in-depth study of well-known speakers.  He concluded that the most effective, extemporaneous speaker was, unfortunately, Adolf Hitler.  Winston Churchill found it impossible.  He had to write and re-write his speeches and then practice them until he felt comfortable presenting them.

Over the years, I regularly was required to speak extemporaneously in my therapeutic-group sessions, in lectures regarding some of my other interests, and even, for fun, spontaneously creating and relating stories.  Apparently, I've inherited a modicum of verbal skills.

I still find, however, reviewing and fine-tuning early drafts beneficial.  The main reason is that imagery and memories are clear to me, yet they may not be clear to listeners unless I make sure that I express them clearly.  As a consequence, I always begin early thinking through and writing about a topic, rather than waiting to the last moment or, perhaps, not writing at all.

I am aware of only one super-genius who never had to rethink or revise what he wrote, and that was the superlative composer Mozart.  He could perform one of his piano concertos, then at the same time compose another in his head, and finally, upon returning home, set the new concerto down on paper without a single change or correction.  Obviously, that skill is astonishing.  Most of us, however, are not so astonishing, and experimenting with our writing still is required.

© 14 July 2015 

About the Author 

I have had a life-long fascination with people and their life stories.  I also realize that, although my own life has not brought me particular fame or fortune, I too have had some noteworthy experiences and, at times, unusual ones.  Since I joined this Story Time group, I have derived pleasure and satisfaction participating in the group.  I do put some thought and effort into my stories, and I hope that you find them interesting.